Observing Breast Cancer Awareness Month Prematurely

[VickySGV]

I went in for a yearly Eye Exam today, and the nurse admitting me noticed that I was due for my every-two-year Mammogram, and since the "Grams" are done on a walk-in basis right next to the Optometry department, I said to myself that I may as well get the boobies mashed and radiated.  So I have just had a Boob-O-Gram.  I have been getting them every two years since my GCS when my HMO's records were changed to female.  I think I was the X-ray tech's first Trans woman patient, but while she was surprised was still very caring and professional.  She did ask me about my hormones and knew what was what as far as T blockers and E and I was cooperative and not put off by it.  I am only a 'B" cup, but even they do get squished a bit.  I had to have three shots of one breast where I did have a biopsy for "intrusive fibroid tissue, non cancerous " 9 years ago and two shots on the other breast.  I have had no other worrisome sighs such as lumps or pain or nipple discharge.  I expect that I will get back my usual "Dense Tissue" but no problems report as I have since the Biopsy adventure which I think is still here on the forum from 2013 if you want TMI. 

The scare that I had 9 years ago has made me an advocate for Trans Breast Health and Women's Breast Health in general.  I have never had a problem with other women in the dressing rooms, and my HMO is Trans friendly but you do have to let them know you have never had a period and its your option to say why mostly.  Do not be afraid of having mammograms or letting most medical people know about you.  We are at risk for cancer and more so if a female relative has had it.  I will be proudly wearing my Breast Cancer Awareness T-Shirts next month and supporting my usual women's health center with a gift of $$ to help ALL women be safe and cared for.

[KathyLauren]

I had my first one earlier this year.  I don't remember any questions about periods, but they did ask if I still had my uterus.  I had a moment of fun by answering, "I never had one of those."  Got a nice double-take from the technician, then I explained why not.

 

Even my almost-A-cup boobs got squished a bit, but it wasn't too uncomfortable.  Mine are medium-dense.  Because the pattern of density makes them naturally lumpy, I have to go back next year for another one.

 

Definitely get 'em checked regularly, ladies.

[Charlize]

Thanks you for posting this.  It is time for me to get mine as it's been at least 3 years.  Covid got in the way of several procedures.  Mammogram was one of the least unpleasant procedures.

 

Hugs,

 

Charlize

[Cheyenne skye]

My work does fundraising every year for breast cancer. So on October 1st this year, everyone comes in wearing pink or other things denoting breast cancer awareness. Not me though. So everybody asks me why I'm not wearing pink. My answer:"I did my part for breast cancer awareness. I've had three mammograms in my life. How about you?"

I remember my first one. The tech takes me in the room and starts with the usual questions. "Are you pregnant?" Me: "No." "When was your last period?" Me: "Never." Then she looks at me and I tell her "I wasn't born this way." Oh, she says and gets on with the test. I was thankful I didn't have to go into any more detail. Now I guess there's a note in my chart so they don't ask anymore.